Blue dasher named Delaware state dragonfly

Following input from students across the First State, the blue dasher has been selected as Delaware’s state dragonfly.

Launched earlier this year by Sen. Stephanie Hansen, D-Middletown, the State of Delaware Dragonfly Project encouraged all students to participate in an essay and art contest to make their case for which dragonfly species deserved official designation. Along with the blue dasher, the other five species up for consideration were common green darner, dragonhunter, tiger spiketail, calico pennant and blue-faced meadowhawk.

The project included educational materials tailored for students at all grade levels to help to inform their contest submissions. Students and teachers were invited to vote for the species of their choice once all submissions had been collected.

“I’m hopeful about the future of environmental education thanks to the talent and conviction that students displayed in their essays and artwork,” said Hansen. “This project embodies issues that are personally meaningful to me, and essential for our students to engage with: civics, the environment and the arts. I’d like to thank all of the teachers, students and community partners who have helped to make the dragonfly project a success, and I look forward to introducing legislation to officially name the blue dasher as the state dragonfly in the coming weeks.”

One of the most common and widespread dragonflies in North America, the blue dasher species can be found at almost every body of water, especially ponds and lakes. Blue dashers are particularly active along the water’s edge, with males often found in aerial battles over territories.

"Dragonflies are truly magical creatures, capturing the imagination of children and adults alike for generations,” said Cindy Martin, Delaware secretary of education. “Their beauty, speed and symbolism inspire curiosity, creativity and a deep respect for nature. The best teachers spark a love of learning that lasts a lifetime, and Sen. Hansen is leading the way by inviting students across Delaware to discover the wonder of dragonflies. This contest was a chance for children to explore, research and share their passion for these incredible insects while learning about the natural world around them. This was an exciting opportunity to celebrate learning, creativity and the magic of dragonflies."

The project was created in partnership with state agencies, local organizations and advocates, including professional artist John Donato. Members of the public are invited to enjoy Donato’s artwork on display from Tuesday to Thursday, June 10 to 12, at Legislative Hall in Dover.

Student artwork will be displayed at the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science in Wilmington.

Winning pieces will be honored during an awards reception hosted by Delaware State University in June and featured on the State of Delaware Dragonfly Project website at delawarenaturally.org/dragonflies.